While I was in Hong Kong, the country was electing its new chief. The format of the debate among the three candidates looked familiar. The podium, setting, accusations, rebuttals, and surprises, combined with candidates that jeered and attacked at every opportunity were similar to those of U.S. presidential candidates. The candidates did a decent job. America’s democracy is being copied.

Growing up in Hong Kong, political debates were unheard of under British rule. Protests were banned.

Strangely, now that Hong Kong is a part of China, the political landscape has changed to become more interesting and controversial. Now, what I’ve seen is a breath of fresh air. (end)